<b>Advances and Future Trends in Real-Time Precision Opto-Control (RPOC) of Chemical Processes in Live Cells</b>

This is a review paper on Real-Time Precision Opto-Control (RPOC). <br>Traditionally, chemical interventions have been the primary approach to manipulating cellular processes, though they often impact non-target biomolecules. Achieving precise, site-specific chemical control in live cells is critical for exploring complex biological systems. Laser-based optical methods offer high spatial precision and rapid response time. Existing techniques primarily rely on spatial light modulation for wide-field illumination or galvo-driven control of tightly focused laser beams. However, they typically require prior knowledge of the sample and are ineffective for controlling highly mobile biological entities. A new approach, termed real-time precision opto-control (RPOC), addresses these limitations by enabling automated target selection based on optical signals and real-time activation of various laser sources. RPOC is based on closed-loop feedback systems that use optical signals to make real-time decisions that control the activation of action lasers. It has demonstrated high precision opto-control of complex and mobile targets without <i>a priori</i> knowledge of the target distribution with nanosecond response time. This review compares RPOC with existing point-scanning and patterned illumination methods and provides an overview of recent RPOC advancements, current applications, and future directions in biological research.<br>